Architect Jacques Herzog admits he 'doesn't find architecture that exciting'

Jacques Herzog, the globally celebrated architect behind iconic structures like London's Tate Modern and Hamburg's Elbphilharmonie, has revealed a surprising sentiment: he doesn't find architecture particularly exciting. In a candid interview for the podcast "NZZ Weekend," Herzog shared personal insights into his life and career.

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Pierre and I would rather stop than betray each other or stab him in the back.

Herzog spoke about his enduring bond with his long-time collaborator and friend, Pierre de Meuron, whom he met in primary school. He emphasized the deep trust between them, stating they would rather cease working than betray each other. This lifelong partnership has been central to the success of their firm, Herzog & de Meuron.

Beyond his professional life, Herzog opened up about his personal struggles, particularly the profound sense of loss he still feels for his parents. He described how they continue to appear in his dreams and how the pain of their absence persists even in old age.

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I miss my parents very much. I still miss not being able to hold my mother's, my father's hand anymore. They still appear to me in my dreams. It is difficult for everyone to lose their parents. And this feeling can last into old age.

The conversation also touched upon Herzog's early architectural endeavors, including his first project, the "blue house" in Oberwil. He reflected on the changing landscape of the architecture world, suggesting that the era of the "star architect" may be drawing to a close. Herzog concluded by sharing a humble personal wish, the details of which were not specified in the provided text.

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I find architecture not so exciting.